Poor state test score could be a sign of a learning disability

Q. Your column a few weeks back on test scores was very helpful but I am still very upset by the report my child received as well. We also have not been told he was struggling. His scores were also really, really low. I feel like the parent who wrote in to you before. How common is it for a normal child in second grade to score in the 200 range and still be OK later? Should we find a new school?

A. The most important thing in life you will do is raise your children. As a parent, you are asking all the right questions and coming into this with a healthy dose of concern.

First, a score of 200 on the California Standards Test – the state examinations given to all students in grades two through 11 – falls in the range of Far Below Basic performance. Students who score in this range are at risk. On the front of your report, a score is listed for English language arts and another for math. If his score is in the 200 range in both of these, this is a concern. On the back of your sheet, there is a further breakdown of categories within language arts and math to give you more information.

Next, you asked how common it is for a student to start in second grade at Far Below Basic and then make progress to come up to Proficient or Advanced. There are students who make these leaps, but he has two levels to pass to come up to Proficient. It can and does happen, but this score could also mean he has learning problems that need to be explored. Even if it is only to rule out concerns, you should ask to have him assessed at your school site to make sure he does not have any learning disorders or delays. Some parents really worry about exploring these concerns. Please do not worry about finding out what your child needs. He may be fine, but he may have areas he will need extra help developing.

Finally, you ask if you should find a new school. That is a question only you can answer. I can help you with questions to ask yourself, but you will have to decide on the best setting for your child. Was your experience in kindergarten, first and second grades positive? Is the school a comfortable place for you and your child? Does your child have friends?

Some kids struggle for different reasons and while it is common to place blame somewhere, it can be that the child is just struggling. It can also be that the school is not appropriate for your child's needs. Certainly, some schools are better than others, but all kids and schools are different. Switching schools when the school experience has been positive and the child is comfortable is not always the best solutio. Uprooting him when he needs to start working hard on something that is challenging for him might not be the best course. But if you know of another school better suited to your child's needs, you should certainly explore that.

Parents are the most important influence on a child and you have the most insight into these decisions. Start with your current school and explore concerns as you consider all of your options. Stay involved in your child's school, and work and do your best to support him at home. You will know what to do when the time is right. Trust yourself to make these decisions, and you all will be fine.